Objectivity & Feminism in Science
In this seminar, we will investigate the concept of objectivity and
its multiple meanings and uses, as well as its role in science and
philosophy. "Objective" can mean really existing in the world, as
opposed to fantastic, or public as opposed to private,
or "subjective". Being "objective" can mean being detached or
unbiased, as well. We will examine the books of Robert Nozick,
Donald Davidson, Thomas Nagel, and Helen Longino, to explore their
views about objectivity and its relation to science and knowledge.
Supplemental readings will include articles by John Searle, Bernard
Williams, Richard Rorty, Lorraine Daston and Peter Galison, Thomas
Kuhn, and Elizabeth Anderson. We will include examination of how
social relations in science affect its objectivity, and end the
semester with a discussion of feminism and objectivity in science.